With colder temperatures comes dryer air. A slightly lower humidity percentage may not seem like a big deal in the tropics, but it does mean that more water wicks itself away from the body and needs to be replaced through oral hydration.
Staying hydrated is important for all the functions of the body to work right. Your skin and hair may be noticeably drier, but your joints, and your gut are not so obvious until you have a problem.
Making sure you get enough hydration daily in order to regulate body temperature, keep joints lubricated, prevent infections, deliver nutrients to cells, and keep organs functioning properly is vital. Lack of water can also decrease ability to sleep and lower mood.
While dehydration is often associated with those ravaging hot summer months, winter should be payed attention to as well. During the winter, we tend to go for longer periods without water, not realizing that breathing cooler drier air causes the body to lose significant amounts of fluid.
On average studies show that participants often feel about 40% less thirsty during winter, even though the body’s need for water is unchanged year-round. Because of this we tend not to keep that water bottle by our side and drink continually.
Here are a few ideas to keep you healthy and hydrated all year round
- Drink Hot Tea – Hot teas are a great way to start the day and stay hydrated. Choose herbal teas that won’t have the opposite effect and dehydrate you.
- Always carry a bottle of liquid with you – carrying a cup with you makes you more likely to remember to take a sip now and then.
- Sip on Water While Watching TV or Reading– insert water drinking into your daily routine. Whenever you take a break at work or a commercial comes on the television. Take a sip.
- Stay Away from Sugar Laden Drinks – Use honey or stevia if you must sweeten, steer clear of artificial sweeteners, and cut back on the sugar and corn syrup too. None are good for you.
- Eat Your Veggies – make sure you are getting leafy greens and other colorful vegetables. They are full of nutrients and also help up your water intake!
Drink even when you aren’t thirsty. By the time you feel thirst you are already on your way towards dehydration.
Ready for more nutrition tips? Check back regularly or come in for a personalized nutritional profile and get in the best health of your life! www.kasterchiropractic.com 239-332-2555.